Sean McCann and the Committed

Friday, September 30

“The writing of songs has become a bit of a distraction for me of late. Long nights on the road mated with extended periods of time off have confused my Gemini mind sufficiently to convince it that poetry melting into melody can make sense of my world. As my parents get older and my children grow, I find myself more and more seeking solace in song.” That’s Great Big Sea’s Sean McCann reminiscing on writing his second solo album, Son of a Sailor, the follow up to last year’s Lullabies for Bloodshot Eyes. Having grown up in Newfoundland and spending 18 years touring with Great Big Sea, it’s easy to hear the musical and maritime influences on songs such as “Rather be a Sailor” and the title track. McCann draws inspiration from the road, from family, and from experience to bring the listener a collection of first person narratives. The album includes dynamic instrumentation and lush background vocals by seasoned players such as Boyd MacNeil of the Barra MacNeils, Figgy Duff’s Kelly Russell, and McCann’s Great Big Sea bandmates. Tickets are on sale now for an acoustic performance by McCann at the Town Ballroom Friday (Sept 30). This is a limited capacity show so get your tickets now because you don’t want to miss out on this swaying solo act. —ariel peters

7pm. Town Ballroom, 681 Main St. (852-3900/www.townballroom.com). $17 advance, $20 day of show.